Ruto Calls for Restraint as Uhuru Reopens Debate Over 2022 Election

President William Ruto has urged Kenya’s political leaders to exercise restraint after former President Uhuru Kenyatta renewed his claim that Raila Odinga won the 2022 presidential election.

Speaking at a Sunday service in Mwatate, Taita Taveta County, Ruto said leaders should recognise the influence of their words and conduct. He warned against making public statements while “confused” or under the influence, saying such behaviour undermines the dignity of leadership and can create unnecessary divisions.

“If you are a leader, you are supposed to be a leading example,” Ruto told the congregation, stressing the importance of discipline and humility among those in positions of authority.

His remarks came days after Uhuru, speaking at a Jubilee Party meeting in Nairobi, repeated his view that Raila had received enough votes to win the presidency in 2022. Uhuru defended his decision to support Raila's candidacy and said he was aware of what happened after the election.

Ruto was declared the winner of the 2022 presidential election with 7.17 million votes, compared with Raila's 6.94 million. The Supreme Court later upheld the result.

Uhuru's comments prompted reactions from political leaders. UDA Secretary-General Hassan Omar rejected the claim, saying the official results and the Supreme Court ruling had settled the matter.

ODM’s Oburu Oginga questioned why Uhuru transferred power to Ruto if he believed Raila had won the election. He said the former president’s remarks had reopened issues surrounding the 2022 contest.

Ruto’s comments come as political parties begin positioning themselves ahead of the 2027 general election. He has sought to present his administration as a response to shortcomings under previous governments and has increasingly associated himself with Uhuru's reform legacy during recent visits to Nyanza.

His criticism of Uhuru has also prompted calls for restraint from opposition leaders. Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka urged Ruto to focus on political opponents who intend to challenge him at the ballot rather than directing his attention towards his predecessor. He said political disagreements should be addressed through democratic engagement rather than personal attacks.